M2 PCIE NVME SOLID STATE DRIVES FOR FUTURE MASS STORAGE SOLUTIONS EXPRO+

Objective: To develop a memory array based on M2 PCIe NAND flash memory Solid State Drives modules and characterise the radiation effects and possible mitigation methods at software and hardware levels.Description: High density Mass storage solutions based on NAND flash memory Solid State Drives (SSD) are widely used in data server applications and present a great opportunity for space applications. However, their reliability and their tolerance to radiation-induced effects have not been evaluated so far. M2 PCI ExpressNon-Volatile Memory (NVM) storage drives are now commonly used System on Module (SoM) devices, similar in size to Double Dada Rate (DDR) memory modules used in personal computers, and capable of storing over 1TB of data. These SoMs incorporate advanced Error Detection and Correction (EDAC) systems to manage the frequent occurrence of bad blocks and bits in 3D NAND Flash Memories. These devicescan be used in a Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) due to Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) interface. Thecombination of powerful EDAC and the hot redundancy of RAID is beneficial for addressing the anticipated radiation effects and wearout in NAND Flash memories when used in Space. The non-volatile nature of these memories helps preventing data loss during power cycling to recover Single Event Functional Interrupts (SEFI) in the control electronics. Additionally, these storage drives are currently used in high-speed computation nodes where radiation effects caused by neutrons and alpha particles are a concern. The PCIe interface is widely supported in commercial processors and FPGAs, and will be featured in the next generation of space-graded processorsand FPGAs. The PCIe interface targets to enable the use of very high density, compact, non-volatile memories modules, for the nextgeneration platform and payload units (OBCs, solid state mass memories, ICUs, etc). This proposal aims to develop a RAID array controlled by a European processor or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), using various M2 PCIe NVMe SSD modules. This setup enables the assessment of feasibility and reliability concerning radiation and wear out effects, paving the way for a new concept of extremelyhigh-density data storage for space applications. This activity encompasses the following tasks: - Selection of several candidateM2 PCIe SSD devices from different manufacturers. - Development of a Single Event Effect (SEE) test setup for SSD drives using thePCIe compatible European processor / FPGA in RAID configuration. - Proton and heavy ion SEE testing- Assessment of the test results and proposal of further mitigation techniques if needed.Procurement Policy: C(1) = Activity restricted to non-prime contractors (incl. SMEs). For additional information please go to:http://www.esa.int/About_Us/Business_with_ESA/Small_and_Medium_Sized_Enterprises/Opportunities_for_SMEs/Procurement_policy_on_fair_access_for_SMEs_-_the_C1-C4_Clauses